Running a small business means you likely have a lot of one-on-one interaction with your customers. Since customers are the bedrock of any business, you have a real opportunity to make meaningful connections with them. Why is this important? If your customers transform from just satisfied to delighted and emotionally connected to your brand (business), then the loyal enthusiasm you gain will pay you big dividends. Delighted customers are great (free) advertisement for your company. So, how can you make those interactions with customers really count and become more meaningful? Here are three tips:

Be Authentic

This may sound simplistic, but it’s an important truth. Authenticity is a desirable and rare quality in the workplace. People are used to “hearing a line” or seeing a “put on.” It’s refreshing when someone is just down to earth and themselves. A lack of authenticity hinders the flow of communication and hampers a true connection.

Take Time

People are in such a hurry that no one seems to have time to listen. It’s true that time is money, and no one wants to waste time, but never look at time spent with customers as a waste. Even if the customer needs something explained three times, take the time to go over it. If you hurry too much with people it can leave a bad impression. There is something attractive about an unhurried attitude.

Be Positive

Positivity is contagious, and it makes people feel good. Even if customers bring up negative comments about life events, other people, or situations, never go along with the negativity. Steer the conversation towards good thoughts. You want your brand to be remembered for positive things. This will boost your image.

Connecting with customers is an important part of any marketing strategy, and it’s something small business owners do all the time. Make your time with customers meaningful by implementing these tips.

The smell of pumpkin spice has filled the air, and people are lining up to indulge in their favorite goodies and holiday sales. Lead more local shoppers to your business as they enter this festive season with one goal in mind: finding the best deals.

Offer Loyal Customers Exclusive Discounts

Many businesses focus on acquiring new customers in Q4, which requires deeper cost and time investments. Your current customers already have a history with you, and they are much more likely to return if you can grab their attention. Plus, if you consistently deliver a positive experience, your customers will spread the word and help you grow your business.

If you have an email list that includes your current customers, leverage this tool to share coupons and limited holidays sales like countdown promotions. Countdown promotions foster excitement by offering special prices or giveaways on specific days throughout the holiday season.

Text campaigns are another great way to generate real-time excitement for your customers. Remind them about your latest sale by sending a casual text like this one:

"Looking for the perfect gift? Stop by today to save 25%. Show this text to redeem this offer."

If you do not have access to your customers' emails or phone numbers, create a flyer. Then stuff your customers' bags with an offer that entices them to return on a day that typically under performs (like a weekday).

Host an In-Store Scavenger Hunt

Creativity leaves a lasting impression with many consumers. Send shoppers on an adventure by giving them a list of items to find in your store. This tactic will keep shoppers engaged with you longer, which means you will increase your chances of turning them into loyal customers.

Once shoppers find the items, you can offer a discount or a free service. Additionally, you can lead shoppers to a treasure chest filled with multiple coupons.

The key with this tactic is to keep your list fairly short. Longer lists may aggravate shoppers, and you want them to explore your store before they lose interest.

Gift-giving season is here, and local shoppers are ready to spend more money. Your job as a business owner is to break through the clutter by offering exclusive events and opportunities. Reward your current customers with irresistible offers that build long-lasting relationships. Up the ante by providing shoppers with a unique reason to visit your store, and they may bring a friend or two. By implementing these two strategies, you will position your business for a strong holiday season.

One fond, warm memory many people have is viewing Christmas lights during the Holiday season, whether you are visiting a new place or would like to start a tradition of your own. Northern California is home to multi-acre lights, fun home displays, world renowned display, and so much more. Here are some of the best places to see this holiday season.

Old Sacramento

History, shopping, and entertainment all in one spot! During anytime of the year you can view old trains, underground tunnels, and fun shops that you will not see just anywhere. However, during December the whole place is lit up. Every few days they also have the Theatre of Lights show. This is where they have all the buildings lit up in a Christmas theme. On top of that you and your children can buy a ticket to ride on the Polar Express. Tickets sell out quickly so plan ahead!

Global Winter Wonderland at the Cal Expo

Experience more than a light show here. You will get an international light show with food options from around the world. This 17 acre wonderland is filled with vibrant colors and plenty to see. In addition to the amazing lights and food, there are live performances for your viewing pleasure. If you choose only one light show to see this year, this would be the ultimate one. It’s so big you can see if from the highway.

Union Square in San Francisco

A walk around San Francisco is almost always entertaining and fun. During December, it is mesmerizing with twinkling lights, carolers, and other things to add to your memory. Once you view the lights there, you can always catch a cable car and view the lights around the city in a different way.

Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco

Tired of walking around in the cold? This light display is inside! Inside of the Fairmont Hotel is there world famous two-story gingerbread house. Yes, actual gingerbread! Besides viewing the culinary masterpiece, there is a train that has had its track extended this year for children to enjoy. If you are a tea drinker, you can also schedule a Christmas tea time.

Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda

This light display started in 1938 and each home has its own unique light display. Not only do they have lights but the Girl Scouts show up to sell treats and Santa is there. You can do a one stop Christmas experience without a mall line.

Zoolights in Oakland

Viewing the animals during the day is fun but how would you like to view them at night? You can view the lights and the animals that are normally out at night. You can walk around and take in the view or ride on the Outback Express train.

Whatever you choose to do for your Holiday fun, we want you to be able to find everything that you need. Visit myyp.com to find places to eat, hotels to stay at, and so much more.